For Immediate Release

On the 140th anniversary of the Berlin Conference, The Africa Centre (UK) and Fatherland Group (Nigeria) invite members of the press to a special conference commemorating one of the most consequential moments in African history.

Convened by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck in 1884-1885, the Berlin Conference laid the foundation for the political boundaries and colonial divisions that continue to shape Africa to this day.

The event will illuminate the long-lasting impact of the Berlin Conference, during which European imperial powers divided Africa among themselves without any representation or input from African nations. The arbitrary borders drawn at the conference disregarded Africa’s complex political, cultural, and ethnic landscape, consolidating approximately two thousand ethnic nations into colonial entities. This geopolitical restructuring laid the groundwork for much of the modern continent’s challenges, including struggles with identity, political instability, and economic imbalances.

A Year of Commemoration and Reimagining Africa’s Future

The Africa Centre and Fatherland Group will co-produce a series of commemorative events throughout 2025 to foster a deeper understanding of the Berlin Conference's enduring effects on Africa and encourage dialogue on the continent's future. Events will include talks, debates, art exhibitions, and cultural activities to educate audiences and promote a vision for a future in Africa, where the consequences of colonial borders are examined, acknowledged, and transformed into a more unified and self-determined continent.

As part of these efforts, Fatherland Group will host an international conference at the University of Lagos in Nigeria in November 2025. This conference will bring together thought leaders, policy-makers, activists, and the public to discuss the far-reaching effects of the Berlin Conference and envision a resilient, cooperative, and prosperous Africa.

Press Conference Highlights:

• Insights into the historical legacy of the Berlin Conference and its impact on contemporary African nationhood.
• Announcement of the upcoming commemorative programme in 2025, featuring influential African voices and artists.
• Reflections from the Africa Centre and Fatherland Group on reimagining Africa’s future beyond the constraints of colonial-era boundaries.

Dele Ogun, the Convenor of Fatherland Group said: “We are excited to be a partner in this landmark educational conference which is intended to improve global understanding of the decisions made at the Berlin Conference and their impact on the development and current state of Africa. As well as looking back, the Conference will also be looking ahead to consider the way forward for Africa and its peoples”.

Olu Alake, CEO, of The Africa Centre: “The Berlin Conference was a seminal moment in modern African history and needs to be properly understood now more than ever, as Africa enters a new epoch where the continent will be of increasing importance to the world. We are especially pleased to be a part of addressing this issue in our 60^th anniversary, as it is very much in line with our mission to educate, connect and advocate for genuine African empowerment and political, social and economic emancipation”.

For Further Information, please contact either:

• Olu Alake

07749496856 | [email protected]

·       Dele Ogun

07946292464 | [email protected]

Notes to Editors:

1. The Berlin Conference was held from November 15, 1884, to February 26, 1885, in Berlin, Germany. Organized by German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, established territorial claims among European powers, marking the beginning of Africa’s colonial period.